“Give a Child a Smile” Missouri Elks Benevolent Trust Dental Program

Since 1962 Mobile Dental Units, purchased and equipped by the Elks, have served the dental needs of eligible physically challenged children, and mentally challenged/developmentally disabled adults and children. Basic and routine dental treatments include x-rays, examinations, cleanings, fluoride treatments, fillings, routine extractions and referrals. Each year, dental procedures are performed on more than 3,000 patients. The value of these services is over $700,000.00.


The newest in the fleet of three Mobile Dental Units was purchase by the Elks for over $195,000.00. It features a wheelchair lift and two special dental chairs. The units are fully accessible for the treatment of our special patients.

The Program was started for disabled children who could not he treated by local dentists due to various reasons. Whether it be the need of special equipment or the extra time these special patients require. The Mobile Unit treatment includes:
– Examination and Diagnosis
– Prophylaxis and Topical Fluoride Applications
– Removal of Infected or Painful Teeth
– Restoration of Infected or Painful Teeth
– Treatment of Gingivitis or Mouth infections
– Placement of Steel Crowns and Space Maintainers
– Pit and Fissure Sealants
– Preventive and Oral Hygiene Instruction to Patient and Family
– X rays
– Root Canals


Missouri is divided into three districts each serviced by a separate unit. The units are scheduled to cover the entire state, Unit 1 serves western, unit 2 central, and unit 3 eastern Missouri.

Children needing hospitalization for dental treatment are referred to Children’s Mercy from the Mobile Units. Missouri Elks fund the Elks Fellowship for Advanced Pediatric Dentistry.


Missouri Elks Benevolent Trust, Inc. Dental Program
100 Club
This can be done as a one time payment or as a pledge of $10 per year. This club provides the annual operating and maintenance expenses.
300/500/1000 – Perpetual Fund Club
This can also be paid at one time or you can pay it in ten pledges of $30 – $50 – $100 per year. In order to provide an assured annual income a Perpetual Fund was established. Only the earning of the Fund may be used. Current Federal and State funding is declining and there is a growing number of patients. Donations from all Elks and non-Elk friends are needed to maintain the current level of service.

http://www.moelks.org/public/pdfs/Benevolent-Trust-will.pdf
